Inverters and Battery Chargers

Inverters for off-grid use can transform electric energy form batteries (low-voltage direct current, often 12 V) to produce 120 V(AC) for domestic power outlets.

• True sine wave inverters are more expensive, but necessary for most electronic devices, or appliances with motors or compressors. (fridges, fans, pumps)
• Inverters have a standby consumption that can drain a battery bank, and should be turned off when not needed.
• Powerful inverters need very thick cables to connect to the battery bank.

These devices charge batteries from a 120 V (AC) source. They are necessary in an off-grid setup to recharge batteries from a generator.

A more powerful battery charger can charge batteries more rapidly, meaning that the generator can run for a shorter time, and more efficiently.

Combined inverter-chargers are simpler to connect since they only need one battery connection, instead of two.